Who can get a FREE eye test?

You might be surprised to discover that you can have your eyes checked completely free of charge at Spectacular Opticians.

Millions of people across the UK are entitled to free sight tests. We see NHS patients every day across each of our seven practices for a wide range of different reasons.

Visiting an Optician regularly is important for looking after your vision, your eye health and even your general health. That’s why, with the support of NHS funding, we won’t let cost stand in the way of you getting regular check-ups for your eyes.

Who is entitled to a free NHS eye test?

The NHS will cover the full cost of your eye examination with us if you are in any one of the following groups:

• Under 16
• 16, 17 or 18 and in full-time education
• Aged 60 or over
• Registered as partially sighted or blind
• Diagnosed with diabetes or glaucoma
• Aged 40 or over and a close family member has been diagnosed with glaucoma
• Advised by an eye doctor that you’re at risk of glaucoma
• Eligible for an NHS complex lens voucher
• Receive benefits including; Income Support, Income-related Employment and Support Allowance, Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, Pension Credit Guarantee Credit or Universal Credit
• Named on an NHS tax credit exemption certificate or NHS certificate for help with health costs.

The online NHS Eligibility Checker tool is an easy way to find out if you qualify, just click the link. It takes less than 5 minutes to answer the questions.

Even if you’re not entitled to NHS support, a standard eye test at Spectacular Opticians costs just £49.

What is included in an NHS eye test?

During an eye test at Spectacular Opticians, one of our experienced Optometrists will take time to get to know you and your eyes.

Your appointment will be tailored to your individual needs and will include:

1. Discussing your medical history and any recent symptoms you have experienced.
2. Measuring your vision using a selection of lenses to work out if you need a prescription to help you see better.
3. Checking the muscles in your eyes work together as they should.
4. Examining your eyes inside and out to check they’re healthy.
5. Depending on your age, medical history and symptoms, we may also do specific checks for common eye conditions such as glaucoma and cataracts.

We allow 25-30 minutes for your appointment to give you plenty of time to ask any questions or talk about any worries you might have.

What is the difference between an NHS eye test and a private eye test?

The level of care we provide for an NHS eye test is exactly the same as our standard private eye tests. The only difference is that it’s funded by the NHS and not you.

Do you have to buy glasses after an eye test?

At the end of your appointment, your Optometrist will make a personalised recommendation of any treatment that might improve your vision or the health of your eyes. This might include a prescription for a pair of glasses.

The NHS gives an Optical Voucher towards the cost of glasses (or contact lenses) to the following groups:

• Under 16
• 16, 17 or 18 and in full-time education
• Eligible for an NHS complex lens voucher
• Receive benefits including; Income Support, Income-related Employment and Support Allowance, Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, Pension Credit Guarantee Credit or Universal Credit
• Named on an NHS tax credit exemption certificate or NHS certificate for help with health costs.

What is an NHS Optical Voucher?

In each of our branches we have a selection of glasses for under 19s that are free with an NHS Optical Voucher, including the lenses you need. For adults, you can pick a pair of glasses for as little as £25 with an Optical Voucher.

You can also choose to pay a ‘top up’ alongside your voucher to purchase any glasses we have available, including from our wide range of designer frames at various price points.

If you’re not eligible for an Optical Voucher, you might need to buy a pair of glasses yourself. We have a wide range of options available, starting from just £69 for a complete pair of glasses including frame and lenses.

Does this all sound a bit much to get your head around? Please don’t worry!

Call our friendly reception team who will give you guidance and advice. They can help you to work out if you’re eligible and then arrange your free NHS eye test today.